Oregon 12-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar & S45 Chain Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use, installation, and maintenance of your Oregon 12-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S45 Chain. This product is designed for homeowners and occasional users seeking a low-vibration, low-kickback saw chain solution.

The Oregon S45 chain features Chamfer Chisel cutters for performance and durability, while the guide bar is engineered for reliable operation. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial for optimal performance and user safety.

Figure 1: Oregon 12-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S45 Chain in its retail packaging. The bar is white with the Oregon logo, and the chain is visible in a clear plastic blister pack.

2. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when working with chainsaws and their components. Failure to follow safety guidelines can result in serious injury.

• Read Your Chainsaw Manual: Before installing or using this replacement bar and chain, thoroughly read and understand the safety and operating instructions provided with your chainsaw.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Consider a hard hat and leg protection (chaps).
• Inspect Before Use: Before each use, inspect the chainsaw, bar, and chain for any damage, wear, or loose components. Ensure the chain is properly tensioned and lubricated.
• Kickback Awareness: This chain is designed for low kickback. However, kickback can still occur. Be aware of the kickback danger zone and maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw.
• Proper Chain Sharpening: A dull chain can increase the risk of kickback and reduce cutting efficiency. Sharpen the chain regularly according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
• Lubrication: Ensure the chainsaw's automatic oiling system is functioning correctly and that the bar and chain are adequately lubricated during operation.
• Storage: Store the bar and chain in a dry, safe place, away from children and unauthorized users.

3. Compatibility

This Oregon 12-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S45 Chain (Model 105698) is compatible with various chainsaw models that require a 12-inch bar with 3/8-inch low profile pitch, .050-inch gauge saw chain, and 45 drive links. It is suitable for saw sizes up to 42 cc.

Examples of compatible chainsaw brands and models include:

• Craftsman
• Echo CS310
• Homelite ZR43100
• Husqvarna 240
• Makita UC4051A, XCU03, XCU04
• Poulan PR4218
• Sun Joe SWJ698E
• Tanaka TCS33EDTP/12, TCS33EDTP/14
• And others requiring the specified pitch, gauge, and drive links.

Important: Always verify your chainsaw's pitch, gauge, and bar length requirements before purchasing and installing any replacement bar and chain. Refer to your chainsaw's owner's manual for precise specifications.

4. Setup and Installation

Follow these general steps for installing the replacement bar and chain. Always consult your chainsaw's specific instruction manual for detailed installation procedures.

1. Ensure Safety: Disconnect the spark plug wire (gas chainsaws) or remove the battery (electric chainsaws) to prevent accidental starting. Engage the chain brake.
2. Remove Old Bar and Chain: Loosen the bar nuts that secure the clutch cover. Remove the clutch cover. Carefully remove the old chain from the sprocket and guide bar. Slide the old guide bar off the mounting studs.
3. Clean Components: Clean any sawdust, debris, or old oil from the clutch area, bar mounting studs, and the new guide bar's groove.
4. Install New Bar: Place the new Oregon guide bar onto the mounting studs. Ensure the bar's oil hole aligns with the chainsaw's oil port.
5. Install New Chain: Carefully uncoil the new Oregon S45 chain. Place the chain around the drive sprocket, ensuring the cutters are facing the correct direction (refer to your chainsaw manual for orientation). Fit the chain into the groove of the guide bar.
6. Replace Clutch Cover: Reinstall the clutch cover, ensuring the chain tensioner pin engages with the hole in the guide bar. Hand-tighten the bar nuts.
7. Adjust Chain Tension: Adjust the chain tension according to your chainsaw manufacturer's specifications. The chain should be snug against the bar but still able to be pulled freely by hand. It should not sag underneath the bar.
8. Tighten Bar Nuts: Once tension is set, fully tighten the bar nuts securely.
9. Check Lubrication: Ensure the oil reservoir is full of appropriate bar and chain oil.
10. Test Operation: Reconnect the spark plug wire or battery. Start the chainsaw and run it at a low speed for a few seconds to ensure proper oil flow and chain operation. Re-check chain tension after initial use, as new chains can stretch.

5. Operating Guidelines

While this manual focuses on the bar and chain, proper operating techniques are essential for safety and performance. Always refer to your chainsaw's owner's manual for comprehensive operating instructions.

• Maintain Chain Sharpness: A sharp chain cuts efficiently and reduces the risk of kickback. Sharpen or replace the chain when it becomes dull.
• Ensure Proper Lubrication: The Lubri-Tec automatic oiling system in the bar is designed to deliver oil to key parts of the chain. Regularly check the oil level and ensure the system is functioning.
• Correct Chain Tension: Periodically check and adjust chain tension. An overly loose chain can derail, and an overly tight chain can cause premature wear to the bar, chain, and sprocket.
• Avoid Contact with Obstructions: Do not allow the chain to contact dirt, rocks, or metal objects, as this will dull the chain quickly and can cause damage.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance extends the life of your Oregon bar and chain and ensures safe operation.

6.1 Chain Sharpening

The S45 chain features Chamfer Chisel cutters. Sharpening should be done with a round file of the correct diameter (typically 5/32" or 4.0 mm for 3/8" low profile chain) and a flat file for depth gauges. Maintain the correct angles as specified by Oregon or your chainsaw manual.

• Always use a file guide to maintain consistent angles.
• Sharpen all cutters on one side, then switch to the other side.
• File only on the forward stroke.
• Maintain proper depth gauge settings.

6.2 Bar Maintenance

• Clean Bar Groove: Regularly clean the guide bar groove to remove sawdust and debris, which can impede chain movement and oil flow.
• Flip Bar: To ensure even wear, flip the guide bar periodically (e.g., every time you sharpen the chain or replace it).
• Check for Burrs: Remove any burrs that form on the bar rails using a flat file.
• Inspect Sprocket Nose: If your bar has a sprocket nose, ensure it spins freely and is adequately lubricated (some require greasing).

6.3 Lubrication

The built-in Lubri-Tec automatic oiling system extends the life of your chain by delivering oil to key parts. Always use high-quality bar and chain oil. Never run the chainsaw without sufficient bar and chain oil.

Figure 2: A bottle of Oregon Premium Bar & Chain Oil, essential for proper lubrication.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Chain Not Cutting Efficiently:
  • Check if the chain is dull and requires sharpening.
  • Ensure the chain is installed with cutters facing the correct direction.
  • Verify chain tension is correct.
• Chain Smoking or Overheating:
  • Check bar and chain oil level and ensure the oiling system is working.
  • Verify chain tension; an overly tight chain can cause overheating.
  • Clean the bar groove and oil holes.
• Chain Derails from Bar:
  • Chain tension is likely too loose. Adjust tension.
  • Inspect the guide bar for damage or excessive wear.
  • Ensure the chain is the correct pitch and gauge for the bar.
• Excessive Vibration:
  • Check chain sharpness and tension.
  • Inspect the bar for bends or damage.
  • Ensure all components are securely fastened.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information regarding your Oregon 12-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S45 Chain, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Oregon website. Oregon products are known for their quality and are backed by manufacturer support.

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact Oregon customer service through their official channels. Always provide your product model number (105698) when seeking support.

You can find more information and contact details on the Oregon Brand Store.